Kollam: Thangasseri, the erstwhile port city of Kollam, that sports the landmarks of the Dutch and Portuguese rule, will be made a heritage hub. The tourism department will set up a light and sound museum to help tourists know the history of ancient Quilon. A recreation club and a park are also planned to promote heritage tourism. A major portion of the area has been encroached by the residents, wiping out the remnants of Thangasseri’s past glory. Efforts are being made to preserve the existing portions, including the Dutch fort, lighthouse and the Portuguese cemetery.
The Buckingham canal that served the port city in ancient times has vanished due to the ignorance of the public about the historical importance of the area. This canal has disappeared owing to constructions and other earth work though the area has been earmarked under the Archaeological Survey of India. The new project aims at educating the people on conserving such heritage sites. The tourism department has allotted Rs 2.5 crore based on the proposal made by the harbour engineering department.
The Kollam port also has initiated steps to commence passenger shipping service to increase the tourist flow. A tourist facilitation centre and boating in the breakwaters will be introduced by the harbour engineering department. The conservation work of the Thangassery fort undertaken by the ASI is under progress. The places near the fort will be beautified with landscaping. The remaining part of the fort is of 20-feet high and four metres thick built with lime plaster and laterite.
